Flat Feet Can Be Prevented

Despite the jokes often made about flat-footed people, the condition is serious enough to cause constant pain and bodily stress. Often thought a physical trait that people are born with, flat feet have never been considered a preventable condition. The fact is that all babies are born with flat feet, meaning the foot has not yet developed an arch. 

In order to prevent your children from having flat feet, it's important to make sure they are fitted with proper shoes that allow their feet to expand while still giving ample support. This allows the arch to develop naturally. 

Adults with flat feet can be helped but not cured. Being overweight can exacerbate the condition. Aids such as orthodics are insole supports fitted to the foot or bought over-the-counter and placed inside the shoe. If you suffer from flat feet, see an orthopedic M.D. or a podiatrist first before doing anything. 

Question of the Week

Question: 
Low Tolerance to Heat, Sweating and Menopause

I just read your letter from the person in Pakistan regarding dehydration and soaring heat, etc. I understand dehydration and what to do and not do. I understand not only water, but minerals are lost when we sweat a lot. I am also an average basic exerciser. Mostly I do lots of power walking-whenever Washington State weather allows-and aerobic tapes before work.

I have extremely low tolerance to heat. As a result I literally sweat buckets. I found out the hard way that this affects the internal workings.

Now, how do I compensate for the exercise AND menopause? Especially those wonderfully enduring little tidbits known as HOT FLASHES and NIGHT SWEATS. I have been dealing with these for three years now. No synthetics, my system reacts badly- just herbs and lots of prayers for relief! The flashing and the sweats cause me to sweat almost, if not more, than when I exercise.

Do I double up the amounts of fluid intake? Do I use other fluids? Does it matter? I drink lots of water now, and recently began adding juice. No sodas, alcohol ever, no espressos, just plain coffee.

Other than dumping the coffee (hiss, hiss) what else can I do or add to keep my system in balance? If it helps, I am 49 years old and about 75 lbs. overweight.


Answer: 
Congratulations at taking a stance in your own behalf for exercise and controlling the sometimes-uncomfortable symptoms of menopause. We are perplexed, however, by the fact that you are still 75 pounds overweight despite your report of frequent aerobic exercise. It sounds like the first thing you need to get a handle on is your diet. No, you do not have to give up coffee. 

Overweight people tend to sweat more than others due to extra exertion needed to perform normal tasks. Other metabolic conditions play a role. The first thing you need to do is see a doctor regarding your overall health and menopausal symptoms.

You need to cut your calorie intake by reducing fats in your diet such as fatty meats, convenience foods, processed foods, sweets and high fat dairy products. Instead, choose fresh fruit and vegetables, low fat dairy, lean meats and whole grains. If you need moral support, join a weight-loss group or diet with a friend. 

It sounds like you are drinking plenty of fluids but cut out the juices and sodas and add more plain water. Coffee, in moderation, is o.k. since you apparently have a real fondness for it. We don't want you to deny yourself everything you enjoy. Healthy living involves some amount of denial but if you are too stringent, you'll get discouraged.

The menopause symptoms seem extreme. Apparently the 'herbs and prayers' have not helped. You say you do not want synthetics as your 'system does not respond well to it.' We assume you are referring to estrogen or Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). Though not for everyone, HRT has been a Godsend to many women struggling through menopause. You need to see a gynecologist specializing in menopause. Hormones can be used for a short period to get you over the hump, so to speak, without long-ranging side effects. Your doctor should discuss your history with you to see if you are a good candidate for HRT. There are different dosages and programs available. If one doesn't 'agree with your system,' another might. Don't disparage 'synthetics.' They have helped cure many diseases and saved countless lives. 

Check our Health & Fitness Home Page for more health tips on exercise and weight loss and just plain healthy living. And let us know how you're doing. Good luck.

The HFT Staff

NOTE: If you would like to see your question featured here, please submit to: questions@health-fitness-tips.com

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